Kid-Friendly Money Lessons That Stick 

Teaching kids about money doesn’t have to be complicated – it can be a lot of fun! For elementary-aged children, everyday life is full of chances to start learning simple, important lessons about spending, saving, and the value of work. And the sooner they begin, the more confident they’ll feel as they grow.  From earning a few dollars for chores to running a lemonade stand, kids can learn real-life money skills in ways that feel like they’re playing. In this article, we’ll share easy, hands-on ideas parents can use to help their children build healthy money habits and start thinking…

May 9, 2025Future Planning No Comments

Teaching kids about money doesn’t have to be complicated – it can be a lot of fun! For elementary-aged children, everyday life is full of chances to start learning simple, important lessons about spending, saving, and the value of work. And the sooner they begin, the more confident they’ll feel as they grow.  From earning a few dollars for chores to running a lemonade stand, kids can learn real-life money skills in ways that feel like they’re playing. In this article, we’ll share easy, hands-on ideas parents can use to help their children build healthy money habits and start thinking…

Paws and Purpose: PEFCU Associate Honored for Community Service

At PEFCU, our associates are more than just dedicated professionals serving our members’ financial needs—they’re also passionate individuals who make a difference in their communities. One shining example is Emily Driskell, a Member Contact Center Representative, who was recently honored with PEFCU’s  Service to Community Award for her outstanding volunteer work and compassionate spirit.   Emily’s commitment to giving back started early. Her first job was at a retirement home, where she found herself returning on her days off to call Bingo, assist with events, and simply spend time with the residents. Growing up without living grandparents, Emily found deep personal…

May 9, 2025Community Engagement 2 Comments

At PEFCU, our associates are more than just dedicated professionals serving our members’ financial needs—they’re also passionate individuals who make a difference in their communities. One shining example is Emily Driskell, a Member Contact Center Representative, who was recently honored with PEFCU’s  Service to Community Award for her outstanding volunteer work and compassionate spirit.   Emily’s commitment to giving back started early. Her first job was at a retirement home, where she found herself returning on her days off to call Bingo, assist with events, and simply spend time with the residents. Growing up without living grandparents, Emily found deep personal…

Debunking 7 Common Credit Card Myths

Credit cards are one of the most popular ways to pay for just about everything, thanks to their convenience and flexibility. But that convenience can come at a cost. Without a clear understanding of how credit cards work, it’s easy to fall into habits that lead to overspending, high-interest charges, and long-term debt.  The key to using credit cards responsibly – and making them work for you – is knowing the facts. Plenty of myths and misunderstandings exist about credit cards, how they affect your credit score, and what certain actions really mean for your finances. In this article, we’re…

May 1, 2025Borrowing Basics No Comments

Credit cards are one of the most popular ways to pay for just about everything, thanks to their convenience and flexibility. But that convenience can come at a cost. Without a clear understanding of how credit cards work, it’s easy to fall into habits that lead to overspending, high-interest charges, and long-term debt.  The key to using credit cards responsibly – and making them work for you – is knowing the facts. Plenty of myths and misunderstandings exist about credit cards, how they affect your credit score, and what certain actions really mean for your finances. In this article, we’re…

One-Minute Reads: Don’t Get Caught in a Hurricane Scam

After a hurricane, scammers are quick to take advantage of people who are stressed, distracted, or in need of help. Stay alert and protect yourself from these common hurricane-related scams:  Fake FEMA or Utility Calls Scammers may pose as government agencies or utility companies, asking for personal information or payment. Remember: FEMA will never ask for money to apply for assistance. Bogus Contractors If someone offers quick repairs for cash or shows up without credentials, be wary. Only work with licensed, insured contractors—ideally those recommended by someone you trust. Phony Charities Scammers often pose as disaster relief charities. Before you…

April 25, 2025One Minute Reads, Security Center No Comments

After a hurricane, scammers are quick to take advantage of people who are stressed, distracted, or in need of help. Stay alert and protect yourself from these common hurricane-related scams:  Fake FEMA or Utility Calls Scammers may pose as government agencies or utility companies, asking for personal information or payment. Remember: FEMA will never ask for money to apply for assistance. Bogus Contractors If someone offers quick repairs for cash or shows up without credentials, be wary. Only work with licensed, insured contractors—ideally those recommended by someone you trust. Phony Charities Scammers often pose as disaster relief charities. Before you…

Overcoming Debt with a Low Credit Score

If you’re struggling with debt and have a lower credit score, it can feel like an endless cycle – high interest rates, declined loan applications, and monthly payments that barely make a dent. But here’s the good news: You are not stuck. No matter what your credit score, there are real, actionable steps to take control of your finances, break free from debt, and rebuild your credit over time.  Whether you need quick fixes to free up cash or long-term strategies to turn things around, there are solutions available. In this article, we’ll loosen the reins debt has on your…

April 22, 2025Uncategorized No Comments

If you’re struggling with debt and have a lower credit score, it can feel like an endless cycle – high interest rates, declined loan applications, and monthly payments that barely make a dent. But here’s the good news: You are not stuck. No matter what your credit score, there are real, actionable steps to take control of your finances, break free from debt, and rebuild your credit over time.  Whether you need quick fixes to free up cash or long-term strategies to turn things around, there are solutions available. In this article, we’ll loosen the reins debt has on your…

PEFCU Gives Back to the Planet and the Community

At Publix Employees Federal Credit Union, we believe that giving back to our planet is just as important as giving back to our members and communities. Every year on April 22, people around the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection and inspiring actions that make a difference. At PEFCU, the environment is one of our three main community pillars, and this Earth Day, we took action! This year, PEFCU marked Earth Day by partnering with Keep Polk County Beautiful for a park clean-up, a hands-on initiative that brought team members together for the day. Associates from different departments within…

April 22, 2025Community Engagement, We Are PEFCU No Comments

At Publix Employees Federal Credit Union, we believe that giving back to our planet is just as important as giving back to our members and communities. Every year on April 22, people around the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection and inspiring actions that make a difference. At PEFCU, the environment is one of our three main community pillars, and this Earth Day, we took action! This year, PEFCU marked Earth Day by partnering with Keep Polk County Beautiful for a park clean-up, a hands-on initiative that brought team members together for the day. Associates from different departments within…

Don’t Give Up on Homeownership

Buying a home right now isn’t easy – prices are high, interest rates have climbed, and there aren’t as many homes on the market. If you’re a first-time buyer, it might feel like homeownership is well out of reach. The competition is tough, and finding something in your price range can be frustrating.  But don’t give up! Homeownership is still possible with the right strategy. By making informed financial decisions and exploring smart buying options, you can significantly improve your chances of success. In this article, we’ll share insights to help you navigate today’s market, manage the homebuying process, and…

April 14, 2025Wallet Wins No Comments

Buying a home right now isn’t easy – prices are high, interest rates have climbed, and there aren’t as many homes on the market. If you’re a first-time buyer, it might feel like homeownership is well out of reach. The competition is tough, and finding something in your price range can be frustrating.  But don’t give up! Homeownership is still possible with the right strategy. By making informed financial decisions and exploring smart buying options, you can significantly improve your chances of success. In this article, we’ll share insights to help you navigate today’s market, manage the homebuying process, and…

30 & Behind? How to Catch Up on Retirement! 

By the time you hit your 30s, life can feel like a whirlwind. From finishing school to launching your career, buying your first home, and maybe even getting married and having children, it may seem like everything is happening at turbo speed. With so many priorities competing for your attention, it’s easy to push retirement savings to the backburner. After all, it’s so far away, right? Then, one day, reality hits: “Oh no, I haven’t saved nearly enough!”  Before you panic, take a deep breath. You haven’t missed the boat! In fact, your peak earning years are likely still ahead…

April 8, 2025Future Planning 2 Comments

By the time you hit your 30s, life can feel like a whirlwind. From finishing school to launching your career, buying your first home, and maybe even getting married and having children, it may seem like everything is happening at turbo speed. With so many priorities competing for your attention, it’s easy to push retirement savings to the backburner. After all, it’s so far away, right? Then, one day, reality hits: “Oh no, I haven’t saved nearly enough!”  Before you panic, take a deep breath. You haven’t missed the boat! In fact, your peak earning years are likely still ahead…

What’s the Secret to Building Wealth? 

Many believe wealth comes from a high-paying job, striking it rich in the stock market, or inheriting money. However, building wealth stems from a few principles that anyone can apply. It’s about creating habits, making informed financial decisions, and staying disciplined. Wealth-building doesn’t require a windfall – it’s about starting where you are and taking small, intentional steps.  Picture your finances as a work in progress, like leveling up in a video game or learning a new sport – each move counts. By forming habits, making wise choices, and staying committed, you can create a financial foundation that lasts. Whether…

March 25, 2025Future Planning No Comments

Many believe wealth comes from a high-paying job, striking it rich in the stock market, or inheriting money. However, building wealth stems from a few principles that anyone can apply. It’s about creating habits, making informed financial decisions, and staying disciplined. Wealth-building doesn’t require a windfall – it’s about starting where you are and taking small, intentional steps.  Picture your finances as a work in progress, like leveling up in a video game or learning a new sport – each move counts. By forming habits, making wise choices, and staying committed, you can create a financial foundation that lasts. Whether…

Tips to Maximize Your Tax Refund

With tax season upon us, taxpayers are looking for ways to maximize their potential refund checks. While this time of the year can often feel overwhelming, it’s also an opportunity to reclaim your hard-earned money. Whether you’re filing for the first time or looking to optimize your return, understanding key deductions, credits, and strategies can make a significant difference.   In this article, we’ll walk you through practical tips to help you maximize your tax refund, reduce your taxable income, and take advantage of every dollar you’re entitled to. Get ready to file with confidence and make the most of this…

March 24, 2025Future Planning, Wallet Wins No Comments

With tax season upon us, taxpayers are looking for ways to maximize their potential refund checks. While this time of the year can often feel overwhelming, it’s also an opportunity to reclaim your hard-earned money. Whether you’re filing for the first time or looking to optimize your return, understanding key deductions, credits, and strategies can make a significant difference.   In this article, we’ll walk you through practical tips to help you maximize your tax refund, reduce your taxable income, and take advantage of every dollar you’re entitled to. Get ready to file with confidence and make the most of this…